• Under general supervision by the Lead Preparator, the Senior Preparator for Collections is responsible for the assignment and management of projects and tasks on his or her focus team.

• Work with Exhibitions, Curatorial, Registration, and Operations to manage all aspects of permanent collection rotations.

• Work with Registration to coordinate periodical photography and conservation of permanent collection objects.

• Coordinate the installation and maintenance of permanent outdoor sculpture in conjunction with the Lead Preparator and Trails & Grounds.

• Organize viewings of permanent collection objects as requested by Curatorial.

• Manage loading and unloading of art trucks in a timely and efficient manner.

• Manage the unpacking and packing of artwork and exhibition furniture.

• Assist registrars with condition reporting of incoming and outgoing artwork, objects, and artifacts.

• Under the direction of the Lead Preparator, design and fabricate safe housing for artwork, objects, and artifacts for storage and transportation purposes.

• Ensure the safe movement and handling of art objects of all media.

• Work with Exhibitions and Curatorial to implement and adjust gallery lighting.

• Manage the matting and framing of artwork for the purposes of storage and/or exhibition.

• Maintain an inventory of tools, supplies, and materials.

• Maintain organized, clean, and functional working spaces, including the Prep Studio, art storage, loading dock, and woodshop.

• Act as courier, as assigned, to accompany collection loans and supervise installation if required.

• Supervise departmental staff, independent contractors, and interns, as assigned.

• Complete all additional assigned tasks and requests for the general support of the Collections Management department and museum functions.

Minimum Qualifications

Education, Training, and Traits

• B.A. in an art related field

• Knowledge of art-handling procedures for two- and three-dimensional art objects in a variety of materials, sizes and weights.

• Technical skills in basic construction, fabrication and installation methods; proper use and care of power and manual tools, lifts, and other applicable equipment.

• Proficiency in the use of standard office equipment and software.

• Skilled in handling all media of art and familiar with installation techniques.

• Working knowledge of hand tools and math applications.

Work Experience

• Minimum of 5 years museum or gallery experience in art handling, exhibition installation, packing and storage.

• Minimum of 1 year proven supervisory and management experience.

In regard to education and experience, an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience will satisfy the minimum requirements.

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid Driver’s License

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent organizational and time management skills

• Skilled and detail-oriented trouble shooter and problem-solver

• Good verbal and written communication skills

• Advanced knowledge of art preparation techniques and practices

• Highly motivated and goal oriented

• Ability to understand and maintain the highest levels of confidentiality

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Sitting or leaning while on post will not be permitted.

• Physical demands: Position requires working in Museum Galleries for prolonged periods of time. This position requires standing, walking and climbing stairs, bending and stretching, and physical stamina to lift a minimum of 50 pounds unassisted. This position requires visual acuity to review written materials is required for this job.

• Work Environment: Work will be performed in an office environment, museum spaces. Additionally, Strong communication skills and ability to interact politely and effectively with a wide range of Museum members, visitors, volunteers and staff. Effectively utilize museum communications system. Communicate with public safety, fire and other local or state emergency personnel in an effective and calm manor.

• Position requires Shift Leads to work rotating shifts in order to learn and facilitate departmental and facility needs.

• Position requires ongoing flexibility in work hours due to events, staffing needs and other factors.